Every dog deserves a treat that’s not only delicious but also nutritious, especially our senior pups who need a little extra care. My senior dog Molly has lost many of her teeth over the years, so I’ve been on the lookout for a soft, easy-to-chew treat that’s still packed with healthy ingredients. After some experimentation, I found the perfect solution: this simple, three-ingredient dog treat recipe. It’s quick, inexpensive, and made with love.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of oat flour (You can easily make your own by blending oats into flour, which is what I did for this recipe.)
• ½ cup of pumpkin purée (Make sure it’s pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling.)
• ¼ cup of all-natural peanut butter (No added sugar, salt, or xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well until a dough forms.
3. You can either roll the dough into small balls and flatten them on a cookie sheet or use a silicone mold in the shape of dog bones or biscuits. I used a silicone mold, which made it easy and fun.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the sides start to brown slightly. The shorter you bake them, the softer the treats will be.
5. Let them cool before serving.

This recipe makes about 36 small cookies. But feel free to customize the size to suit your dog’s needs.

The Benefits of Pumpkin, Peanut Butter, and Oat Flour

Pumpkin is a superfood for dogs. It’s packed with fiber, which can help with digestion, especially for senior dogs who might experience irregular bowel movements. Pumpkin is also rich in vitamins A, C, and E, supporting your dog’s immune system, vision, and skin health. Plus, it adds a delicious, natural sweetness to the treats that dogs love.

Peanut butter is a great source of protein and healthy fats. It’s also a good source of vitamins B and E, which are essential for maintaining a healthy coat and strong muscles. However, it’s crucial to use all-natural peanut butter without added sugar or xylitol, as xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs. The creamy texture of peanut butter also helps make these treats soft and easy to chew, which is especially important for dogs like Molly.

Oat flour is a gentle, gluten-free alternative to wheat flour, making it perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or grain allergies. Oats are rich in fiber, which helps regulate your dog’s digestive system, and they provide a slow-release energy source that keeps your dog feeling full longer. Making your own oat flour by blending oats is a cost-effective and easy way to add wholesome grains to your dog’s diet.

Perfect for Senior Dogs

As our dogs age, they often face dental challenges. Molly, for instance, has had several teeth removed, so finding treats that are soft enough for her to enjoy without causing discomfort is essential. These homemade treats are ideal because they’re soft and chewy, making them easy for senior dogs to eat. Plus, the combination of pumpkin, peanut butter, and oat flour ensures that they’re not just tasty but also packed with nutrients that support her overall health.

Made with Love

There’s something special about making treats at home for your dog. You know exactly what’s going into them, and you can tailor the recipe to meet your dog’s specific needs. These homemade dog treats are easy to whip up, budget-friendly, and tailored to meet the needs of senior dogs. The best part? They’re made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about.

Whether you have a small dog or a larger one, this recipe is versatile enough to be customized for any size and preference. Give it a try and see how much your furry friend loves these soft, chewy delights. After all, a happy dog is a healthy dog, and with treats like these, you’re ensuring they get the best of both worlds.